2013: A Coming of Age for DxN

We are very excited to be kicking off our second year of Design by Nature; this year feels something like a coming of age for the program. A new website, a refreshed look, and an ambitious set of goals all come together in one emerging public art competition that is rapidly becoming a big red circle on the Toronto creative calendar.

Fresh off the success of our first year, we are excited to announce that Teknion

will continue as the founding sponsor of the program. And frankly – we couldn’t do it without them. Its only through the foresight and great support of the people at this amazing Canadian design legacy that Design By Nature has found its wings and is starting to soar.

So what is in store for 2013? Once again our kick- off event is set for late spring, with the call for proposals due on May 5th. Our emphasis this year will be on functional furniture– Brick Works can always use more places to sit, eat, recline and enjoy the amazing wonders of the site – and the jury will be looking for these pieces in particular this year.

We will also look to expand our network and reach out to the broader Canadian artistic community. So please, help us: tell your colleagues, forward along the call for proposals to your talented artist-friends, tweet about us (#DesignxNature) shout from the rooftops…the more people that know about us the better the program will be. Which ultimately means the better the vehicle it will be to promote innovative local art, furniture and sculpture for all to enjoy.

We are also looking for ways to be better in touch throughout the duration of the program. The launch of our new blog, updated FAQ’s, and regular announcements on our website. Lori has taken over from Joanna (who is now a momma!) as our new program coordinator and is busy making sure our information is accessible, responsive and current. She’s also the wonderful voice who is patiently responding to all of your emails.

So…a lot. A lot of reasons to be excited. A lot of reasons to participate. We can’t wait.